What Is Bedding Sand?
Bedding sand in used in place of natural ground materials. Landscapers and farmers use types of bedding sand most often, but it has many applications in a variety of industries. There are different types of bedding sand based on the companies that make it and how it is processed. Does this Spark an idea?
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Definition
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Bedding sand is a small aggregate collection usually found in mines and quarries as mining work takes place. The sand is collected, cleaned and processed until it is often shipped in trucks or sold in bags. It has very little organic matter, no large stones or extra debris, and is designed to be a dry landscaping material.
Landscaping Uses
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When used in traditional landscaping, bedding sand is used to create a level surface to serve as a base for projects. The soil where the project is planned is scooped out with a shovel, anywhere from several inches to a foot or more in depth, and the bedding sand is placed on top. This is very common when landscapers want to lay pavers or patio stones on the ground. Bedding sand should not be confused with join sand, which goes between the stones themselves.
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Animals
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Bedding sand is also very common in animal husbandry. In this case, it provides a bed not for stone but for animals, and is a common material used for cattle stalls and similar locations. The bedding sand drains easily, stays cool, and is packed firm enough for comfort. Since it is low in organic materials, it does not provide an easy place for bacteria to grow. Bedding sand is also used in tanks and glass cages for smaller animals.
Types and Shapes
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There are several different types of bedding sand. When the sand is first collected at quarries, it is screened and divided according to size. Number 1 sand is the finest and has a powdery feel, while number 4 sand is rough and used in concrete mixes. The sand can be either rounded or flat-edged. Flat-edged sand tends to hold pavers and concrete blocks more firmly in place, while rounded sand is better for animals.
Considerations
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Bedding sand can wash away and may need to be replaced occasionally when used outdoors. Landscapers should bind the sand into an enclosure using wood or stone borders so it does not easy slip away. In order to compact the sand correctly, an outdoor compacter should be used to level the surface.
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References
- Photo Credit pavers image by Pix by Marti from Fotolia.com
